Additional Support for Learning (ASL) Services in West Lothian
West Lothian, a growing council area in central Scotland blending towns like Livingston with surrounding rural communities, is committed to strong SEND support tailored to its diverse families. The area performs well above the national average in primary literacy and numeracy attainment, reflecting effective educational foundations that benefit all children, including those with additional needs. Enquire, Scotland's independent SEND advice service, offers free, impartial guidance to West Lothian parents at 0345 123 2303 or [email protected], helping you navigate local options with confidence. With new school capacities planned amid population growth, services here aim to keep pace with your child's needs.
As West Lothian's services keep pace with growing families and strong educational foundations, JakTrack empowers you to feel prepared and in control from the start - capturing everyday moments like sleep, meals, and behaviour to quietly build a powerful evidence base over time. Starting early means you'll walk into appointments with Enquire or CSP reviews feeling truly supported, spotting patterns and insights that make all the difference. It's the gentle companion that turns overwhelm into quiet confidence for your journey. see how JakTrack can help
Schools & ASN Provision
87
Schools
6
Specialist
9
ASN Units & Resource Bases
27,798
Total Pupils
10,703 pupils
Additional Support for Learning (ASL)
West Lothian operates under the Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Act 2004. Instead of EHCPs, children here may receive a Coordinated Support Plan (CSP).
Scotland Support Organisations
These national organisations can help families in Scotland navigate the additional support system:
Scottish national advice service for additional support for learning
Helping children and young people have their say about their support
Official guidance on additional support for learning
Local Services & Contacts
Enquire / ASN Advice
Free, independent advice and support for families navigating additional support needs in Scotland.
Enquire
Schools
Cedarbank School
Special100% ASNOgilvie School Campus
Special100% ASNPinewood School
Special100% ASNBeatlie School Campus
SpecialBurnhouse Skills Centre
SpecialConnolly Campus School
SpecialBlackburn Primary School
Primary69.3% ASNDedridge Primary School
Primary55.9% ASNMurrayfield Primary School
Primary55% ASNDeans Community High School
Secondary51.3% ASNSt Kentigern's Academy
Secondary46.1% ASNBalbardie Primary School
Primary44.5% ASNSt Mary's RC Primary School
Primary43.4% ASNThe James Young High School
Secondary42.6% ASNLinlithgow Academy
Secondary37.3% ASNUnderstanding ASN provision in Scotland
Scotland operates under the Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Act 2004, which takes a broader approach to identifying children who need extra help. Here's what you need to know:
Additional Support Needs (ASN)
Under the Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Act 2004, a child has additional support needs if they need more or different support to access education. This is broader than England's SEND definition - it can include family circumstances, bereavement, or English as an additional language, as well as disabilities and learning difficulties.
Coordinated Support Plan (CSP)
A CSP is Scotland's equivalent of an EHCP, reserved for children with complex or multiple needs requiring support from education AND at least one other agency (health, social work). Most children with ASN won't have a CSP - they'll receive support through the school's own planning. CSPs have legal protections including tribunal appeal rights.
Additional Support for Learning Coordinator
Every school should have someone responsible for coordinating additional support. While not a statutory role like England's SENCO, most schools designate a teacher or member of the leadership team to oversee ASN provision, coordinate with external agencies, and work with families.
Child's Plan & GIRFEC
Scotland's Getting it Right for Every Child (GIRFEC) framework means every child who needs one gets a Child's Plan. This is less formal than a CSP but ensures coordinated support. The Named Person (usually head teacher or health visitor) helps coordinate services. Most children with ASN are supported through a Child's Plan rather than a CSP.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions from families about SEND support in West Lothian.
Navigating SEND in West Lothian?
JakTrack helps you track evidence, prepare for Coordinated Support Plan (CSP) reviews, check benefit eligibility, and stay on top of appointments - all in one place.
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